Components

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Cable Fire Ratings Reference Guide
Cable re ratings need to be considered when specifying cabling infrastructure to ensure local building codes are met. The below
rating guide provides the information needed to determine which rating is appropriate for different installation environments.
Plenum Rated Cable (OFNP)
A Plenum Rating (OFNP) signies cable that has passed stringent burn testing and is suitable for installation into air plenum
spaces. OFNP cables have re-resistance and low smoke production characteristics. They can be installed in ducts, plenums, and
other spaces used for building airow. This is the highest re rating ber cable and no other cable types can be used as substitutes.
Plenum Rated Cable (OFCP)
A Plenum Rating (OFCP) differs from OFNP in that the cable contains metallic elements, typically armor, and therefore, conducts
electricity. All other aspects of this rating are the same as OFNP.
Riser Rated Cable (OFNR)
A Riser Rating (OFNR) is commonly required when cables are run between oors through open vertical shafts. OFNR cables are
used in Riser areas which are building vertical shafts or runs from one oor to another oor. OFNR cables cannot be installed in
plenum areas since they do not have the required smoke rating as plenum rated cables. OFNP plenum cables can be used as
substitutes for OFNR Riser cables.
Riser Rated Cable (OFCR)
A Riser Rating (OFCR) differs from OFNR in that the cable contains metallic elements, such as a layer of armor, and therefore,
conducts electricity. All other aspects of this rating are the same as OFNR.
Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH)
A Low Smoke Zero Halogen Rating (LSZH) is sometimes referred to as low toxicity cable. When burned, PVC-based cables
produce a cloud of toxic smoke containing corrosive compounds. The LSZH cables do not contain the Halogen type compounds
that form these toxic substances. LSZH ratings are expressed as OFN-LS or OFNR-LS if the cable also meets the requirements of
a OFNR rated cable.
EuroClass
EuroClass cable for the EMEA market is LSZH cable that has been tested to more stringent standards and labeling requirements as
per the EU’s Construction Products Regulation. EuroClass ratings range from B2ca, the highest applicable rating for communications
cable, to Fca, which is non-rated or self-declared. Each level of EuroClass cable from B2ca down to Dca are further characterized by
Smoke, Flaming Droplets, and Acidity ratings. Local regulations vary on which rating can be used in which application, so it is impor-
tant to understand the local requirement. Further information on Panduit’s EuroClass offering is available at the CPR landing page.
Non-Flame Rated
Outside Plant (OSP) cables are intended for outdoor use only. Typically, these cables are constructed using
varying densities of Polyethylene, (PE) in the outer jacket. Because cables without ame ratings do not
contain ame suppressants and emit noxious gasses when burned, building codes often
restrict the distance installers are permitted to route inside buildings before
termination to 50 feet or 15 meters.
Panduit
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Opti-Core
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Fiber Optic Cable